- About this resource
- What is podiatry?
- How can a podiatrist help?
- When you should consult a podiatrist
- Foot terminology
- Foot problems
- Categories of foot problem
- The most common foot problems
- Achilles problems
- Ankle problems
- Ball and arch problems
- Common injuries
- Deformities
- Foot diseases
- Heel problems
- Skin and nails
- Toe problems
- Vascular/Nerve problems
- Caring for your feet
- Rare or unusual problems
- Treatments and therapies
- Diagnostic technologies
- Orthotics
- Surgery
- Therapies
- Fitness and feet
- Footwear
- Fun foot facts
- Quick reference
- Useful links
Flatfoot
Flatfoot is a condition that causes flattening of the arch of the foot. Patients with flatfoot frequently have ankle pain and difficulty with daily activities. Initial treatments can include rest, immobilisation, shoe inserts, braces and physical therapy.
However, if these are unsuccessful, surgery may be considered. A number of specific surgical procedures can be performed, but they can generally be grouped into those that correct deformities of the bones and those that repair ligaments and tendons. Your orthopaedic surgeon will choose the proper combination of procedures for your foot.